Agartala, October 26: The three-day East Zone Chess Championship for the Visually Challenged 2024 began on Saturday at the Agartala Press Club.
The tournament was inaugurated by Tripura’s Cooperative and Minority Welfare Minister Shukla Charan Noatia, who was joined by Tripura Sports Council secretary Sukanta Ghosh and All Tripura Blind Committee general secretary Sahadeb Das for the lamp-lighting ceremony.
Jointly organized by the All India Chess Federation for the Blind and the All Tripura Blind Committee, with support from the Tripura Sports Council, the event has drawn participants from eight states, including host state Tripura.
This competition aims to provide visually impaired players a platform to showcase their skills and foster a sense of community through sports.
Minister Noatia addressed the gathering, highlighting the government’s commitment to inclusive development by nurturing the talents of all sections of society.
He stated that sports are a priority for the state, not only for promoting physical fitness but also for mental well-being, which keeps youth away from negative influences like drugs and crime.
“By supporting visually impaired youth in sports, we hope to inspire all young people to engage in healthy activities, contributing to a more positive society,” he added.
Sondariya Kumar Pradhan, a participant expressed his appreciation for the initiative, stating that chess is unique in allowing visually impaired and sighted players to compete under the same rules, fostering unity and mutual respect.
“Such events bring people from different backgrounds together, strengthening the sense of community and belonging,” he shared.
Emphasizing the value of chess as a mental exercise, Pradhan remarked, “Chess is not just a game but an intellectual exercise that boosts self-confidence, helping individuals excel in their respective fields.”
The championship, which combines competition with community building, underscores the importance of inclusivity and empowerment for the visually challenged.
